The Transformers franchise began in 1984 with Hasbro toys and an animated series about Autobots and Decepticons that could change between vehicles and robots. The transformation sound became a signature part of that idea, later reimagined with heavier mechanical detail in the live action films starting in 2007. Clips of toys, cars and animations set to the noise spread widely on video platforms, turning it into a shorthand for any dramatic morph or upgrade. It remains popular because the reference is instantly understood across generations.